Introduction: A childhood shadowed by hardships
Priya’s childhood was marked by a series of hardships that would have crushed most spirits. Born into a family where being a girl was seen as a burden, she struggled against the weight of societal norms that sought to confine her dreams. Her father’s addiction to alcohol cast a dark shadow over their humble home, creating an environment of constant tension and uncertainty. While her father’s addiction pulled their family deeper into turmoil, Priya’s mother worked tirelessly to support their large family.
Facing isolation and bullying
At the age of 12, Priya made a bold decision. She left the government school and transitioned to a private school, hoping that it would offer her a better opportunity. Yet, this new beginning came with its own set of challenges. Bullied by her classmates for being different and struggling to adjust to the new environment, Priya found herself sinking into self-doubt. The dreams she nurtured began to slip further away, overshadowed by the harsh realities of her new school.
“It was hard,” she recalls, “I felt like I didn’t belong anywhere. I was different, and that difference made me feel invisible.”
A New Beginning:
It was in the midst of this turmoil that a transformative opportunity entered Priya’s life like a breath of fresh air. An innovative STEM program offered her the lifeline she desperately needed. It was not just about academics; it was about empowerment. Surrounded by mentors who believed in her potential, Priya discovered a newfound confidence within herself. Through the program’s emphasis on leadership and communication skills, she blossomed into a young woman, unafraid to voice her thoughts and aspirations.
But the program was more than just an educational initiative; it was a sanctuary where Priya found the strength to confront her past traumas. The scars of her father’s abuse and the discrimination she faced within her community no longer defined her. She embraced her identity with pride, knowing that her worth transcended societal expectations.
“They gave me more than knowledge; they gave me belief in myself,” Priya says, remembering how the program helped her reconnect with her own strengths.
Building confidence and leadership
The mentors saw potential in Priya that she had never seen in herself. Through their support, she discovered a newfound confidence. The program emphasized leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills, and slowly but surely, Priya began to blossom.
“The way CYDA empowered me, it changed everything. I learnt to speak up, to lead, to believe that I could make a difference,” she shares with a proud smile.
Transformation: From self-doubt to inspiration
With each passing day, Priya’s transformation was nothing short of extraordinary. The girl who once walked into a room with her head down in self-doubt now stood tall, filled with purpose. The lessons of self-love, confidence, and leadership she learned at CYDA turned her into a beacon of hope for her family. She began to inspire others, especially her younger siblings, showing them that education could be the key to breaking free from the chains of their circumstances.
Paving the way for future generations
Priya’s transformation serves as a reminder that no obstacle is insurmountable when fueled by perseverance. Her journey is not just about her own success; it is about the generations that will follow her.
Priya says with quiet resolve. “I want to show my youngsters, that no matter where you come from, no matter the obstacles, you can change your story. I did, and so can they.”
Through her unwavering determination, Priya has rewritten her own destiny. She has created a new narrative—one of hope, empowerment and limitless possibilities. Priya’s story is not just her own; it is a testament to the transformative power of education, community support, and an unshakable belief in one’s own potential.
(This article is contributed by Kalyani Mudaliar Documentation Officer at CYDA)
